Kauai Itinerary Options

A Guide to Customizing Your Clients’ Kauai Experience

Every traveler is unique, and no single itinerary is going to work for everyone. Therefore, one sample itinerary isn’t going to cut it for every traveler. However, there is one structured day-by-day itinerary on this page that is an overall generic starting point for you, but the other suggestions listed will serve as flexible options to help you tailor recommendations based on your clients’ interests and preferences.

 

For example, not everyone wants to hike along the Napali Coast or enjoy a scenic helicopter tour—so it’s essential to qualify your clients properly to ensure you’re suggesting the right experiences for them.

 

You’ll find suggested resorts categorized by budget and style, along with a variety of activities broken down by adventure level and travel style. Of course, some iconic sights and must-visit locations appeal to almost everyone, and those are included as well. Use these suggestions as a starting point to craft the perfect Hawaiian getaway for your clients headed to Kauai.

Resort Suggestions Based on Client Type

NOTE: This is not an exhaustive list. These are just the top recommendations for each type of client to give you a starting point. You’ll still need to make suggestions based on your clients budgets and that will vary from client to client.

Honeymooners or Couples with a higher budget:

  • 1 Hotel Hanalei
  • Grand Hyatt Kauai
  • Ko’a Kea
  • Royal Sonesta Kauai
  • Sheraton Kauai
  • Timbers Kauai

Honeymooners or Couples with a lower budget:

  • Kauai Shores
  • Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort
  • Sheraton Coconut Beach
  • The ISO

Families with Small Children (budgets vary):

  • 1 Hotel Hanalei
  • Grand Hyatt Kauai
  • Kauai Shores
  • Koloa Landing
  • Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort
  • Westin Princeville

These resorts have activities and things to do to engage children as well as some have kids club options

Families with Teens or those wanting a Condo & have lower budgets:

Based on clients with children over 13 that need multi-bed or multi-bedroom options, as well as those that want a kitchen.

  • Kauai Beach Villas
  • Kiahuna Plantation Cottages
  • Outrigger Waipouli Beach
  • Waimea Plantation Cottages

These resorts offer condo style accommodations where multiple beds may be needed for older kids.

What to Suggest in Itineraries Based on Interests

Must-See & Common Attractions for Most People:

  • Go to a Luau: There are several luau options you can choose from for your clients. I recommend not having them do this on their first couple nights so they have had time to adjust to the time difference.
  • Waimea Canyon State Park: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this stunning park offers panoramic views, hiking trails, and opportunities for photo ops at multiple lookouts.
  • Poipu Beach: A great family-friendly beach that offers calm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling, as well as a chance to spot Hawaiian monk seals.
  • Na Pali Coast State Park: Whether by boat, helicopter, or hike, the rugged beauty of the Na Pali Coast should be seen. The Kalalau Trail is a popular hike for those seeking adventure. Experienced Hikers ONLY.
  • Wailua Falls: A beautiful, accessible waterfall located just outside of Lihue. It’s a must-see for most travelers.
  • Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge: Visit this scenic spot to see the Kilauea Lighthouse, enjoy sweeping coastal views, and spot native seabirds. Advanced reservations required.
  • Hanalei Bay: One of the most picturesque beaches on the island, ideal for a relaxing day of beachcombing, paddleboarding, or a leisurely walk.
  • Limahuli Garden and Preserve: A stunning botanical garden in the Na Pali Coast, offering a glimpse into Hawaiian agriculture and a relaxing walking experience.
  • Kauai Coffee Company Tour: Take a free self guided tour of the largest coffee plantation in the U.S. to learn about coffee production and sample delicious Kauai-grown coffee.

For the History Buff:

  • Kilohana Plantation: Located in Lihue, this historic plantation offers tours that take visitors through the history of Kauai’s sugar industry, along with a chance to see beautiful grounds and ride on the plantation train.
  • Hanapepe Valley: This valley is home to the island’s oldest town, Hanapepe, which was once a bustling sugar plantation village. Explore the local art galleries and the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge, a piece of history from the plantation era.
  • Kauai Museum: Located in Lihue, the Kauai Museum showcases Hawaiian artifacts, cultural exhibits, and the island’s history, including the development of the sugar industry.
  • Poli’ahu Heiau: A historical heiau (Hawaiian temple) located north of Lihue, giving insight into ancient Hawaiian spiritual practices.
  • Grove Farm Sugar Plantation Museum: Learn about Kauai’s plantation history and the rise of the sugar industry at this preserved historical site.

For Adventurous Travelers:

  • Helicopter Tour over Na Pali Coast: One of the best ways to experience Kauai’s rugged coastline is by helicopter. It offers jaw-dropping views of the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and waterfalls.
  • Ziplining: Kauai offers some of the best zipline tours, like those at Kauai Backcountry Adventures, where you can soar above lush jungles and waterfalls.
  • ATV Tours: Take an off-road adventure through Kauai’s backcountry, visiting movie locations and scenic areas often inaccessible by other means.
  • Scuba Diving or Snorkeling at Tunnels Beach: Tunnels Beach is known for its crystal-clear waters, making it a popular spot for both snorkeling and scuba diving.

Popular Hikes for Active Clients:

  • Kalalau Trail: A challenging 11-mile hike along the Na Pali Coast, offering breathtaking views of cliffs, beaches, and valleys. Experienced hikers ONLY. Permits are required.
  • Waimea Canyon Trails: There are several trails within Waimea Canyon State Park of varying difficulty. Popular ones include the Cliff Trail and the Awaawapuhi Trail, both offering stunning views of the canyon.
  • Sleeping Giant (Nounou Mountain): A moderate to challenging 2.5-mile hike that takes you to the top of the Nounou Mountain for panoramic views of the eastern coastline.
  • Mahaulepu Heritage Trail: This trail runs along the southern coast, offering coastal views, historical sites, and the opportunity to see local wildlife.

1 Week Sample Itinerary for the Basic Traveler

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation 

This is assuming they are staying in Poipu since it’s the most common area to stay.

 

  • Arrive in Lihue: Pick up your rental car and check into your resort.
  • Depending on when you arrive: Spend the afternoon relaxing at Poipu Beach, known for its calm waters and great snorkeling opportunities. If you’d like, take a short drive to visit Spouting Horn to see the natural blowhole in action, or explore the Poipu Shopping Village for local shops and restaurants.
  • Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner at your resort  You can also relax and take in the sunset views from Shipwreck Beach.

Day 2: Waimea Canyon & Koke’e State Park 

  • Morning: Begin your day with a visit to Waimea Canyon State Park, also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Stop at Waimea Canyon Lookout and Puu Ka Pele Lookout for panoramic views of the canyon. Morning is best for viewing the canyon.
  • Midday: Take a short hike along the Cliff Trail or Awa’awapuhi Trail for additional canyon views or venture onto Koke’e State Park to explore Pihea Trail with views of the Na Pali Coast. 
  • Afternoon: Visit the Koke’e Museum to learn about the history and ecology of the park.
  • Evening: Return to Poipu for a relaxing dinner at The Beach House or enjoy a sunset cocktail by the water.

Day 3: Na Pali Coast 

  • Morning: Take a Na Pali Coast boat tour or opt for a helicopter tour if you’re looking for a thrilling aerial view of Kauai’s rugged coastline. Depending on where your tour departs and ends will depend on the rest of your day.

FROM THE SOUTH SIDE:

  • Afternoon: Take a tour of Kauai Coffee Company to learn about the history of coffee cultivation on the island. OR Visit the Kauai Museum to learn more about the island’s cultural and historical heritage.
  • OPTIONAL: Visit Glass Beach or visit to Allerton Garden at National Tropical Botanical Garden, where you can take a guided tour of the stunning gardens and learn about the island’s flora.
  • Evening: Return to Poipu for dinner and relaxation.

FROM THE NORTH SIDE:

  • Visit Hanalei Bay, a beautiful crescent-shaped beach that is ideal for swimming and relaxing. Be sure to stop at the Hanalei Valley Lookout.
  • Evening: Explore Hanalei Town for boutique shopping and local dining.

Day 4: Adventure Day – Ziplining, Hiking, and Beaches

  • Morning: Start your day with an exciting zipline tour through Kauai’s lush landscape. You’ll zip over valleys and rivers, taking in breathtaking views of the island’s tropical beauty. OR Begin your day with a visit to the Kilauea Lighthouse and National Wildlife Refuge for stunning coastal views and birdwatching.
  • Midday: Head to Shipwreck Beach for a relaxing afternoon. The beach is great for swimming, sunbathing, and photography. OR head to Lydgate Beach Park for some snorkeling, as it is one of the best spots on the island for marine life and crystal-clear waters.
  • Optional Adventure: For those looking for a more active day, hike the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail, a relatively easy coastal trail offering stunning views of the ocean and rugged terrain.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Luau. This immersive experience offers insight into Hawaiian culture, featuring traditional food, music, and hula dancing.

Day 5: Kayaking, Snorkeling & Scenic Lookouts 

  • Morning: Begin your day with a kayaking tour along the Wailua River, one of Kauai’s most scenic rivers. You’ll paddle through lush forests and tranquil waters to the Secret Falls hike (optional).
  • Afternoon: After kayaking, head to Lydgate Beach Park for some snorkeling, as it is one of the best spots on the island for marine life and crystal-clear waters.
  • Optional: hike Sleeping Giant (Nounou Mountain) for panoramic views of the east and north shores.
  • Late Afternoon: Visit Opaeka’a Falls and Wailua Falls for easy access to Kauai’s stunning waterfalls. Both are located near Lihue and offer spectacular views for photos.
  • Evening: Head to Kauai Village Shopping Center for a casual dinner and some last-minute shopping before heading back to your resort.

Day 6: North Shore Adventures & Scenic Drives

  • Morning: Drive up to the North Shore and start with a visit to Hanalei Bay, a picturesque, crescent-shaped beach perfect for relaxing or a swim.
  • Midday: Explore Hanalei Town, known for its local boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. It’s a great place for lunch and a relaxed stroll around the town.
  • Afternoon: Head to Limahuli Garden and Preserve, a botanical garden located at the base of the Na Pali Coast. Explore the beautiful gardens and learn about Hawaiian cultural practices.
  • Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner in Princeville or Hanalei Town, both known for their upscale restaurants and local dining options.

Day 7: Relaxation 

  • Morning: Spend your last day relaxing at Poipu Beach. Depending on what time your flight departs, here are a few other ideas for the rest of the day.
  • Afternoon: Head to Kukui Grove Shopping Center or Poipu Shopping Village for some shopping, where you can find everything from local artisan crafts to luxury boutiques. Or check out Hanapepe Valley: Visit Hanapepe Town, Kauai’s oldest town, to explore art galleries, quaint shops, and the famous Hanapepe Swinging Bridge.
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